The Dangers of Synthetic Drugs 

Synthetic drugs have rapidly become a concern in the UK over recent years, growing in prevenance, accessibility and use. Often, these drugs are marketed as ‘legal highs’ or sold under appealing yet false names. Unfortunately, they are far more dangerous than many people realise, causing intense psychological effects, an unpredictable nature and a high risk of addiction. Because of these dangers, they can have a much more severe impact on lives over a quicker period.  

At New Leaf Recovery, we have seen the harm that these synthetic drugs can cause to individuals and those around them, even with short term or infrequent use. With our rehabilitation support and a structured 28 day rehabilitation programme, we are able to help clients through detoxification and provide a strong foundation for lasting recovery. Get in touch with our team today for yourself or a loved one; take a step in the right direction today.  

What Are Synthetic Drugs? 

A synthetic drug is a man-made chemical compound that is designed to replicate the effects of drugs such as cannabis, cocaine, MDMA or heroin. Often, they have been created in an illegal laboratory with no quality control, or they are sold under misleading names. Some common examples include: 

• Synthetic cannabinoids, known as Spice or Black Mamba. 

• Synthetic cathinones, known as Flakka or Bath Salts.  

• Designer Benzodiazepines. 

• Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS).  

Whilst these substances can replicate the effects of well-known drugs, they have been chemically altered which can make them highly dangerous and unpredictable. 

If you have been struggling with synthetic drug use, seek support with New Leaf Recovery in Brimingham. Available 24/7, we are here to help everyone find a recovery that meets their needs.  

The Dangers of Synthetic Drugs 

As with all drugs, synthetic drugs have many dangers that users often discover to late, including: 

1. Unpredictable Effects 

2. Severe Physical & Psychological Side Effects 

3. High Risk of Dependency 

4. Long Term Mental Health Impacts 

Unpredictable Effects 

Synthetic drugs are very rarely what people perceive them to be and do not contain what is expected. Ingredients, potency levels and chemical compositions vary from batch to batch meaning no synthetic drug is ever the same. This means that you can never be sure how your body will react to the drugs being taken, leading to unpredictable effects and risks.  

Severe Physical & Psychological Side Effects 

As with any drugs, even a small amount can trigger a severe reaction of some kind, leading to users struggling with: 

• Hallucinations and paranoia 

• Extreme panic or anxiety 

• Violent or erratic behaviour 

• High blood pressure or rapid heart rate 

• Seizures 

• Loss of consciousness 

• Kidney failure 

• Suicidal thoughts or psychosis. 

It has been stated that in the case of synthetic cannabinoids, such as Spice, users can often experience rapid, intense effects that are far stronger than the effects of cannabis. This can result in far more severe mental and physical health concerns for users, even those who use recreationally.  

High Risk of Dependency 

Many synthetic drugs act powerfully and quickly, creating intense cravings even after limited or infrequent use. These cravings can lead to a more compulsive nature and higher usage, a rapid growth in tolerance to get the same effects, and withdrawal symptoms such as agitation, tremors, hallucinations, sweating or insomnia.  

Often, what can begin as experimentation or infrequent use can quickly become dependency on synthetic substances.  

Long-Term Mental Health Impacts 

It has been noted that synthetic drug use is strongly connected to ongoing mental health difficulties such as: 

• Depression 

• PTSD like symptoms 

• Anxiety 

• Paranoia 

• Substance-induced psychosis. 

These mental health issues can often persist long after substance use has stopped, but they can certainly aid in the severity of them for many individuals. 

Seeking Support Early is Essential 

Due to the unpredictable nature of synthetic drugs and their potency, it is key to seek support early as opposed to waiting until the problem has ‘got out of hand’. Seeking support for professionals early can: 

• Prevent a worsening dependency 

• Reduce the risk of long term mental health harm 

• Provide a safe, controlled detox 

• Help individuals to understand their triggers and cravings and how to cope with these 

• Offer emotional support and a structured recovery programme. 

The earlier you seek support for yourself or a loved one, the better their chances of achieving a long-term recovery and reducing further emotional, physical or psychological harm.  

At New Leaf Recovery, we provide 24/7 support for everyone who has been impacted by drug use. We aim to work with you to provide a structured rehabilitation programme that helps you or your loved one work on a brighter, healthier future. Don’t hesitate to reach out to New Leaf today.  

The Benefits of a 28 Day Residential Rehabilitation Programme 

New Leaf Recovery is a private, residential rehabilitation centre in Birmingham, providing detoxification and rehabilitation programmes for those who have been struggling with synthetic drug use. Our 28 day rehabilitation programme offer a safe space where clients can find the support, they need to break the cycle of addiction and rebuild their stability and resilience.  

Why stay for 28 days? 

As with any form of drug or substance abuse, withdrawal can be unpredictable and emotionally challenging. Our team at New Leaf Recovery provides 24/7 support in detoxification, including medical support, helping clients to manage their symptoms in the best ways possible whilst remaining as safe and comfortable as possible.  

Staying in rehabilitation for a longer period of time also allows your body and mind to reset. This time of healing and stability can help clients to move beyond crisis mode and thoroughly embrace therapeutic work, including meditation, EFT, counselling and other forms of rehabilitation.  

Whilst staying at New Leaf Recovery for more than 7 days, clients will participate in a range in rehabilitation therapies, all proven to help in emotional expression and cognitive behavioural changes: 

• Art Therapy 

• Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) 

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) 

• Group Therapy Sessions 

• Counselling 

• Meditation 

• Health & Well-Being 

Taking the time to understand the cause of substance abuse, the triggers for it and being able to begin working on healthy coping mechanisms is crucial for long-term recovery. Doing this in a residential environment can help to remove pressures, environments or peoples that may well encourage you into further drug use, giving clients time to focus fully on their recovery and sobriety.  

It has been proven that staying in residential rehab for longer can significantly improve recovery success rates, particularly for those who have struggled with high dependency substances, such as those of synthetic drugs.  

Getting Support with New Leaf Recovery 

If you have been struggling or know someone who has been struggling with synthetic drug use, reach out to our team at New Leaf Recovery today and let us help you with a structured, 28 day rehab stay in Birmingham.  

We understand the dangers associated with any form of substance use, but with the right support and rehabilitation, recovery is possible for everyone. New Leaf Recovery offers a safe, compassionate space for clients to begin their journey and find aftercare support post-rehab for ongoing support.  

Begin your new start with a single step. Call New Leaf Recovery today.